Step by Step Guide & Costs

Whether your proposed project will be brand new construction on undeveloped land, the expansion of an existing business or redevelopment in an older location, we can make electric and water service available within our service area in accordance with our existing policies and procedures. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you start working with Development Services.

1. To begin, you must request a Letter of Availability from OUC to learn whether water and/or electricity are available for your location. You should receive a response in 3-5 business days confirming the services that are available.

2. Once service availability is confirmed, you'll need to submit three sets of plans (in PDF format) that include the service requirements indicated in your services availability confirmation to developmentservices@ouc.com.

3. Based on the plans submitted, Development Services will create a work order to record and track your project.

4. Your plans will be forwarded to all applicable engineering departments for review and pricing estimate.

5. Development Services will set up utility coordination meetings as needed with you and your design team.

7. When the reviews are complete, each engineer will notify Development Services to send you a cost letter to you. This process can take up to 30 days.

8. Engineers will order long lead items such has transformers or large water meters. Lead times can take up to 12-14 weeks.

9. Submit payment with all of the required forms.

10. Once we've received the forms, permits are pulled and the project is added to the construction schedule.

11. Preconstruction meetings are scheduled with your contractors and construction will begin.

12. The engineer will review the completed construction. While projects vary, customers should plan on three to six months from the time plans are submitted until OUC services are installed and the OUC project is complete.

Cost in Aid of Construction (CIAC) Charge

OUC Electric contribution in aid of construction (CIAC) for underground service is designed to recover the cost differential between underground and overhead distribution systems. This charge is applied to all new commercial/multi-family facilities that will be put underground and varies for service areas with and without natural gas service to appliances.

• The current feeder charge is $24 per kVa for Customer-installed duct bank

• There is a feeder charge of $53 per kVa for OUC installed duct bank

For new electric service in areas that are served by natural gas the cost are as follows: